In China, drone and laser shows lit up the skies over Beijing, while the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, the world’s tallest building, became the centerpiece of a light and sound extravaganza. Sydney Harbour in Australia hosted a massive fireworks display, while Melbourne’s Yarra River was the focal point of New Year festivities. South Korea observed the beginning of 2026 by ringing traditional bells, accompanied by fireworks.
India also witnessed vibrant celebrations. In Delhi, revelers gathered at India Gate for countdown celebrations, while devotees visited Gurudwara Shri Bangla Sahib at midnight to offer prayers. In Jammu and Kashmir, tourists in Ganderbal welcomed the New Year amid snowfall. Rajasthan’s Udaipur saw tourists from across India and abroad celebrate with music and dance, while the Golden Temple in Amritsar attracted large crowds of devotees. Cities such as Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh and Surat in Gujarat also lit up with street festivities, fireworks, and cultural programs.
However, celebrations were marred in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, where a fire broke out at the historic Vondel Church during New Year festivities, prompting emergency alerts and causing panic in the area. Authorities quickly intervened to contain the situation, though no casualties were reported.
Time zones played a key role in the global sequence of celebrations. The world is divided into 24 time zones, each differing by approximately one hour. This system ensures that New Year reaches eastern nations like New Zealand first, followed by countries gradually westward, with India celebrating seven and a half hours later than New Zealand. The staggered arrival of 2026 continues for about 26 hours across the globe.
New Year celebrations carry a rich historical tradition dating back centuries. Initially based on the solar calendar, communities worldwide have long marked the changing of the year with rituals, festivals, and social gatherings. Modern observances now combine cultural, religious, and secular practices, often featuring music, fireworks, and family celebrations.
As 2026 begins, nations continue their longstanding traditions while adapting celebrations to contemporary preferences, highlighting a shared human enthusiasm for new beginnings and collective hope for the year ahead.
